The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) of Japan has notified a proposal on a partial amendment to the Radio Act under the issuance of WTO Notification G/TBT/N/JPN/840. The proposed amendment will affect the current frequency band used for Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) and Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) applications. The new Enforcement of the Radio Act will expend the frequency band 433 MHz used for TPMS and RKE applications to 433.05 MHz – 434.79 MHz. Therefore, in this article we will discuss all important notes from the MIC’s amendment proposal under WTO Notification G/TBT/N/JPN/840 and its impact to Type Approval in Japan.
Key notes of WTO Notification G/TBT/N/JPN/840
There are some important notes from the issuance of WTO Notification G/TBT/N/JPN/840. Therefore, here are some important notes to understand:
- The issuance of WTO Notification G/TBT/N/JPN/840 indicate the proposal amendment to Ministerial Ordinance which specifically affect the partial amendment to Enforcement of the Radio Act and Regulation for Radio Equipment.
- Reasons for this amendment proposal is in response to the situations where a wider frequency band for Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) and Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) applications has become a global standard frequency than that specified in Japan’s current regulations. In major countries, no requirements are imposed on the equipment for TPMS and RKE applications.
- An amendment regulation will be established refer to the current situations, which are applied to Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) and Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) applications.
- The frequency band used for TPMS and RKE will be expanded to 433.05 MHz – 434.79 MHz. Previously, the frequency band used for TPMS and RKE system in Japan was 433.795 MHz – 434.045 MHz. Therefore, the requirements previously imposed on the TPMS and RKE equipment will be eliminated.
- Comments related to the amendment can be submitted until 14 April 2026 via email: enquiry@mofa.go.jp.
- Proposed date of entry into force of the amendment is June 2026.
Impact on Japan Type Approval
The amendment to technical regulations for frequency band 433 MHz used for TPMS and RKE devices may affect the type approval process for radio equipment in Japan. Manufacturers, suppliers and importers may need to adjust the frequency band of their TPMS and RKE devices once the new technical regulation is fully enforced. However, since the Japanese authorities made adjustments to the frequency band 433 MHz to align with frequency band adoption in many countries, then the enforcement of the new technical regulations also may simplify the type approval certification process in Japan.
Conclusion
As informed earlier, the implementation of amendment to technical regulations for frequency band 433 MHz may impact the process of Type Approval in Japan. Therefore, it is crucial to prepare for the conformity activities of TPMS and RKE applications before the amendment regulations fully implemented in Japan. During this transitional period, applicants and manufacturers can consult with our expert team. Therefore, feel free to send an email to info@narmadi.com if you have any questions about this new topic.
